Ihlamur Pavillion

The Ihlamur valley which is situated on the European side of Istanbul between the districts Besiktas, Yildiz and Nisantasi today, started to attract interest between the years 1839 and 1861 during the reign of the Ottoman Emperor Abdulmecid and thus the Ihlamur Pavilion started to be constructed. The pavilion which is surrounded by high walls is named after the linden trees that grow in its gardens. This historical building which is also known as “Ihlamur Pavilions” is known to be used as a rest house and a guest house where Sultan Abdulmecid hosted his guests. Inside the building there are two mansions called Merasim Kosk and Maiyet Kosk . The Merasim Kosk which has a rather interesting architectural appearance with a baroque staircase in front and the reliefs at the facade has been used for official ceremonies while the other mansion which was built in a rather plain architectural style was used by the entourage and harem of the Sultan. After the death of Abdulmecid at a rather young age his brother Abdulaziz ( 1861-1876) showed interest in these buildings and surrounding highly favoured by his brother although he himself did not lay much importance on them and had some of the cock and ram fights organized in this garden.The kings of Bulgaria and Serbia who visited Istanbul have been accomodated in this building which was also used by Sultan Mehmed Resad (1909-1918) from time to time. The Ihlamur pavilions have been taken under protection by The Parliament, Office of National Palaces after 1966 and presently Merasim Kosk is open to visits as museum and palace while Maiyet Kosk is used as a cafeteria where from time to time receptions are organized. In the garden of the Ihlamur Pavilion there is a building built in the Republic Period and is being used for public housing. The pavilion is open every day except Monday and Thursday from March to September 09.30-17.00 October to February : 09.30-16.

Source: http://www.pointsfromturkey.com